On July 16, 1862, Robert Patterson wrote his father from Sperryville, Virginia. In his letter he notes that the extreme heat, and lack of water, has caused two soldiers to die of sunstroke. He also comments on the army, who is there, and their overall strength. However, it is obvious that food is a major issue for the army. Robert notes that “This is a good fighting regiment and is able to hard service and now numbers more men than any Regt here but it will soon be cut down if the Government insists upon starving us.” (Transcript of Robert letter to father, July 16, 1862)
